York County hires new solicitor

York County has new top legal eagle after commissioners announced Monday they appointed veteran attorney Glenn Smith as its new solicitor.

Smith, an attorney with the York City-based law firm CGA, is expected to begin in his new role on Monday, Feb. 1, pending approval from the county salary board.

“Glenn is an excellent attorney with an impressive background in civil, criminal and municipal matters," President Commissioner Susan Byrnes said in a news release. “That diversity of experience makes him a great fit for this role, and we’re excited to bring him on board.”

Past: Smith, of Manchester Township, comes to the county with 15 years legal experience in public and private practice.

Smith, who holds a law degree from Widener School of Law, was an assistant district attorney for the county from 2001 to 2003 when he joined a private law firm.

During his time as an attorney, he has represented individuals and businesses. He also served numerous municipalities, authorities and county row officers and was solicitor for the Pennsylvania State Mayors Association.

As county solicitor, Smith will serve as the commissioner's top legal adviser and will represent the county in local, state and federal courts.

Smith will be paid $110,000 annually, county spokesman Carl Lindquist said in an email.

Applicants: Commissioners started their search for a new solicitor shortly after Flannelly was elected to the bench.

They interviewed seven candidates and had two of them, one of whom was Smith, back for follow-up interviews, said Doug Hoke, the vice president commissioner.

"He (Smith) seemed to have a good personality," Hoke said. "He seemed like a pretty knowable guy."

Commissioner Chris Reilly said Smith's experience in the courtroom and working with municipalities were selling points for him.